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PhrasesRequesting Hotel ServicesPotete cambiarmi dei dollari in euro?
B1formal

Potete cambiarmi dei dollari in euro?

Can you exchange some dollars into euros?

Pronunciation

cam-BIA-re — three syllables, stress on the second.

When to use it

Ask at reception if you need currency exchange. Most Italian hotels can exchange major currencies, though at less favourable rates than banks.

What it means

'Potete cambiarmi' = can you exchange for me. 'Dei dollari in euro' = some dollars into euros. 'Dei' is the partitive article. Italian hotels that offer currency exchange ('cambio valuta') typically use rates that include a commission — always ask the rate before agreeing.

Variations

Qual è il tasso di cambio oggi?

What is the exchange rate today?

Always ask the rate before exchanging — hotel rates include commission

Dove trovo un ufficio di cambio?

Where can I find an exchange office?

Ask for the nearest 'ufficio di cambio' if the hotel rate is unfavourable

Accettate dollari americani?

Do you accept US dollars?

Some Italian tourist areas accept USD directly, though the rate is rarely favourable

Mini Dialogue

— Potete cambiarmi duecento dollari in euro? — Sì, ma il tasso dell'hotel include una commissione. Vuole sapere il tasso? — Sì, grazie. — Oggi le diamo 1,05 per dollaro. Il cambio di mercato è 1,09.

— Can you exchange two hundred dollars into euros? — Yes, but the hotel rate includes a commission. Would you like to know the rate? — Yes, thank you. — Today we give you 1.05 per dollar. The market rate is 1.09.

Cultural Note

Currency exchange at Italian hotels is convenient but expensive. The best rates in Italy are at post offices ('Poste Italiane') or banks, and the worst are at airport exchange booths. If you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, using it directly is almost always better than exchanging cash.